blinkenlights

blinkenlights

English

Etymology

Mock German from blink and lights; see the Wikipedia article for history.

Pronunciation

• Audio (UK)

  (file)

Noun

blinkenlights pl (plural only)

1. (computing, slang) The flashing lights on an electronic device such as a modem, router or network hub (originally the front-panel lights on old computers).
   • 2007, Charles Stross, The Merchants' War

     The back of the NIRT truck was crowded with consoles and flashing panels of blinkenlights, battered laptops plastered with security inventory stickers...

   • 2011, Charlie Sorrel, "LightDims: Tiny Sunglasses for Blinkenlights", Wired

     I am talking about — of course — LED blinkenlights, the usually-blue glowing pimples that pepper routers, speakers, computers and even USB hubs.